FAQ
Q: What is a CSA?
A: A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a way for the food buying public to create a relationship with a farm and to receive a weekly portion of produce. By making a financial commitment to a farm, people become members of the CSA.
Q: What is the name of the farm who works with the DUMBO/Vinegar Hill CSA?
A: Our produce comes from Sang Lee Farms of Peconic (North Fork), NY
Q: Is the produce organic?
A: Yes, Sang Lee Farms is a NOFA-NY Certified Organic Vegetable Farm.
Q: How was the farm connected with the CSA?
A: Just Food is the non-profit umbrella organization who matches qualified local farms with CSAs in NYC.
www.justfood.org
Q: Can I visit the farm?
A: Yes, we have a formal farm visit for the CSA twice a year and our farmers have a weekend farm stand which you can visit on your own. www.sangleefarms.com
Q: When is the CSA season?
A: Our season runs from June through November.
Q: Do you only have vegetable shares?
A: Yes, currently our farm only provides organic vegetable shares. Occasionally a fruit will be added to our share from a local conventional farm.
Q: What is the time and place of distribution?
A: Distribution is currently every Tuesday from June 10-November 11th 2008. Our distribution is held in DUMBO in the courtyard of Phoenix House, 50 Jay Street. Use the Plymouth Street driveway entrance. Distribution runs from 4:30-7:30 PM.
Q: Do you deliver shares?
A: No, we don’t have the capability to make deliveries and our members find that seeing each other at the weekly distribution builds community.
Q: Do I have to be a member to participate in the CSA?
A: Yes, only prepaid members can participate in distribution. There are no on-site sales of the produce during the season.
Q: When do I sign up?
A: Our membership is full for the 2008 season. You can email us at to be added to our waiting list for the 2009 season. Our waitlist will become active sometime after January 1, 2009.
Q: What is the cost of a share for 2008?
A: A full share is $565. A partial share costs $350. Please see our weekly distribution lists on our website for the difference between full and partial shares.
Q: Can I become a member for part of the season?
A: No, we only take members for the full six month season. However, you are welcome to find someone to split your share with you.
Q: How do I make a payment?
A: Please see our website during the new year enrollment period for information on check payment.
Q: Do I have to donate any time to be a member in the CSA?
A: Yes, every share needs to volunteer to help out at two distributions during the six month season.
Q: If I work late or have children, do I still have to work at distribution?
A: Yes, we have a late shift from 6-8 PM for people who can’t leave work early. If your schedule is not flexible at all we can arrange for other volunteer opportunities. You can bring your children to distribution with you.
Q: What happens if I’m on vacation or can’t get to distribtuion one week?
A: You can ask a friend/neighbor to pick up your share or give it away. If no one comes to pick up your share it is donated to Phonix House and used in their residential cafeteria.
Q: Are there any events or actvities associated with the CSA?
A: Members volunteer to plan get togethers, food demos and the farm visits. We always welcome new ideas and volunteers for other activites.
Q: What if there is a drought or flooding and the farm can’t produce the quantity or quality of vegetables it normally does?
A: By becoming a member of the CSA you assume the risk of organic farming. Our farmers are highly expierenced and will do everything they can to make sure we have the best possible produce no matter the circumstances.
